03 Jun 2024

Counseling / Mental Health

Navigating Transitions & Life Changes: Coping Strategies for Uncertainty

Transitions and life changes are inevitable parts of our lives. They can be significant events or periods that lead to changes in our routines, perspectives, relationships, or circumstances. Whether planned or unplanned, these transitions can happen in various areas, such as career, relationships, health, and more. Understanding how to navigate these changes effectively is crucial for maintaining mental health and well-being. Here, we will explore coping strategies to help manage transitions and uncertainty, emphasizing the importance of finding support, including searching for the best licensed professional counselor in Arlington or a black counselor near you.

What Are Transitions/Life Changes?

Life transitions can include events like:

  • Moving to a New Location: Relocating to a different city or country.
  • Starting a New Job: Transitioning to a new role or career path.
  • Getting Married/Divorced: Entering or leaving a marriage.
  • Having a Baby: Becoming a parent.
  • Graduating from School: Completing educational milestones.
  • Retiring from Work: Ending a career and entering retirement.
  • Experiencing a Significant Illness or Injury: Coping with health challenges.
  • Dealing with the Death of a Loved One: Grieving a significant loss.
  • Coming Out as LGBTQ+: Sharing one’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • Experiencing a Personal Transformation/Spiritual Awakening: Undergoing significant personal growth or shifts in worldview.

Coping Strategies

Coping strategies are essential for managing transitions and life changes. They help reduce stress and adapt to new circumstances effectively. Here are some effective strategies:

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a powerful tool for stress reduction, improved focus, emotional regulation, and reducing anxiety and depression. By practicing mindfulness, you can cultivate a greater sense of well-being and resilience.

How to Practice Mindfulness:

  1. Find a quiet and comfortable space where you can sit or lie down.
  2. Close your eyes and focus on your breath.
  3. Take note of any thoughts, emotions, or sensations that arise.
  4. Engage your senses by noting any sounds, smells, tastes, and textures around you.

Build a Support System

Having a strong support system is vital for emotional support, social connection, and overall well-being. Knowing that people care about you and are there to listen and help can make a significant difference in navigating challenges and coping with stress.

How to Build a Support System:

  • Friends and Family: Seek comfort and guidance from friends and family members. They can provide a listening ear, words of encouragement, and share their experiences or perspectives.
  • Support Groups: Join support groups to connect with others going through similar transitions.

Embrace Change

Adapting to new situations and experiences is essential for personal growth, resilience, and success. Embracing change allows you to broaden your perspectives, develop new ways of thinking and problem-solving, and build valuable skills.

How to Embrace Change:

  • Stay Open-Minded: Approach new situations with curiosity and openness.
  • Focus on Growth: Look for opportunities to learn and grow from new experiences.
  • Be Patient: Give yourself time to adjust and adapt to changes.

Seek Professional Help

Coping with uncertainty can be challenging, and it’s okay to seek professional help when feeling overwhelmed. Mental health professionals, such as counselors, are trained to help navigate difficult emotions. Seeking help is a sign of strength and taking care of your mental health is as important as taking care of your physical health.

How to Find a Therapist:

  • Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family members, or healthcare providers.
  • Use Online Directories: Websites like Psychology Today, GoodTherapy, or TherapyDen offer directories to search for therapists based on location, specialty, insurance coverage, etc.
  • Consultations: Many counselors offer a consultation to discuss your needs and determine if they are a good match for you. Utilize this opportunity to see if you feel comfortable with the counselor and if their approach aligns with your needs.

Conclusion

Transitions can be challenging, requiring adaptation to new circumstances and coping with a range of emotions. However, they also offer opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and positive change. Approach life transitions with self-awareness, resilience, and a willingness to seek support when needed. Practicing mindfulness, building a support system, embracing change, and seeking professional help can make navigating transitions more effective and lead to stronger resilience.

About the Author

Mikaela Smith is a Master’s Student Intern pursuing her MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Recently relocated to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Mikaela’s military upbringing exposed her to diverse perspectives, fueling her passion for mental healthcare. She is dedicated to helping others achieve their goals and is honored to support their growth, healing, and positive change.

15 Dec 2023

Mental Health

How Can You Manage Your Time Online To Maintain Your Mental Health?

Finding focus and maintaining good technology habits can feel virtually impossible in today’s hyperconnected society. Notifications are springing up everywhere, social media is designed to keep you scrolling indefinitely, and FOMO is real. How can you navigate the digital world without falling down anxiety-inducing rabbit holes or continually comparing your life to the lives of others on social media? The good news is that by following a few easy steps, you can take back control over how you use technology and sharpen your attention. You’ll learn how to set reasonable boundaries, stay focused and productive when you do spend time online with this tutorial. Your psychological well-being will be grateful. Are you prepared to regain your composure? Now let’s get going.

How to Manage Your Internet Time to Increase Concentration and Lower Anxiety

You must manage your time intentionally if you want to stay focused and feel less anxious when using the internet. The following advice can help you improve your mental health:

Minimize Interruptions

To avoid being inundated with notifications all the time, turn off the notifications on your gadgets and applications. Check specific websites and social media accounts only during designated periods. Turn off music and video autoplay. You can concentrate better the less distracted you are.

Take Regular Breaks

It’s easy to go down an internet rabbit hole, so take breaks every 30-60 minutes. Stand up, stretch, step away from your screen. Even brief breaks can help rejuvenate your mind and body.

Be Selective

Not all content online is created equal. Choose to engage with media and communities that enrich your life. Follow accounts that inspire and educate you. Join groups with a positive purpose. The more you curate what you consume, the less anxious and more focused you’ll feel.

Limit Comparison

Don’t get caught up comparing yourself to the curated lives people promote on social media. Remember that you’re seeing a filtered version of reality. Focus on your own journey and the things you have to offer.

With some simple strategies, you can take control of your online time and find your focus. Your mental health will thank you. 

Creating a Healthy Digital Diet: Setting Boundaries for Social Media and Email

Creating a healthy digital diet means setting clear boundaries for how you engage with social media and email. Unfettered access to these channels can be mentally draining and distracting. Here are some tips for maintaining a balanced diet:

Limit Social Media to 30 Minutes a Day

Whether it’s Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, limit your time on each platform to no more than 30 minutes per day. Set a timer to keep yourself accountable. Spending too much time scrolling through curated posts can negatively impact your self-esteem and mental health.

Turn Off Notifications

Disable notifications from social media apps and email. Notifications disrupt your focus and tempt you to check in when you don’t need to. Take back control of your time and check each platform on your own schedule. You won’t be as distracted and will be more productive.

Don’t Check Email First Thing

Resist the urge to check your inbox first thing in the morning or right before bed. Emails will be there when you’re ready to respond, and many aren’t urgent. Give yourself space in the morning to start your day focused on your priorities. Check email in batches a few times per day instead of constantly monitoring for new messages. Your work-life balance and mental well-being will appreciate it.

Take Regular Digital Detoxes

Take a break from social media and email for a day or longer. Digital detoxes help reduce stress and anxiety by breaking the habit loop. Even taking weekends off from technology can help you recharge and renew your focus. Come Monday, you’ll feel more motivated and productive after unplugging from the digital noise. Make detoxing a habit for better wellbeing.

Balancing technology with self-care will empower you to use social media and email on your own terms instead of feeling controlled by them. Protect your mental health by being selective with your digital diet and make the most of your time spent online. You may achieve a balance between your digital life and your mental health by putting these helpful suggestions into practice. Remember that having a more purposeful and deliberate attitude to your online activities can result in a happier and healthier existence. If you’re having trouble, don’t be afraid to seek professional help from a counselor in Arlington, TX. Stay focused on living in the present moment – not what’s happening on your screens or in your inbox.

22 Nov 2023

Depression / Mental Health

5 Techniques To Help Change Negative Thoughts Of Depression

Negative thoughts frequently drain our energy, especially for people who are depressed. But by using the appropriate methods, you may change your mind and see things more positively. Utilizing the knowledge of Kenyatta Black Counseling, your go-to counselor in Arlington, Texas, we’ll examine five effective ways to assist in overcoming negative thoughts in this blog post. 

The Burden of Negative Thoughts

Labyrinthine layers of depression frequently show themselves as a constant stream of negative, self-critical thoughts. These ideas spiral in on themselves, intensifying the emotional upheaval. Even the simplest things may seem overwhelming to people who are depressed because they feel hopeless. It’s important to understand that, despite being debilitating, these negative thoughts do not constitute one’s identity. There are difficulties to go over and obstacles in the way of healing.

The Beacon of Hope: Kenyatta Black Counseling

For individuals navigating the turbulent waters of despair, Kenyatta Black Counseling, located in the center of Arlington, Texas, is a ray of hope. Kenyatta Black offers a safe sanctuary, offering knowledgeable direction and compassion to people looking for relief from the onslaught of unfavorable ideas. She does this with a wealth of experience and unshakable determination. The therapy process requires a sense of trust and openness, both of which are fostered by Kenyatta’s method, which is grounded in empathy.

Empowering Techniques for Positive Transformation

Let’s now go into the transforming techniques that are the foundation for overcoming unfavorable ideas, each of which has been carefully chosen to assist people on their path to emotional well-being:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

In CBT, a type of psychotherapy, the goal is to recognize and change unfavorable thought patterns and behaviors. Therapists assist patients in identifying erroneous thinking and swapping it out for more rational and uplifting ideas. Understanding the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors is made easier by using this method. People can end the cycle of depression by recognizing and reframing negative ideas. Additionally, CBT gives people coping mechanisms and problem-solving abilities, making it simpler to handle trying circumstances.

Mindfulness Meditation

Being completely present in the moment and noticing thoughts and feelings without passing judgment on them is the practice of mindfulness. Consistent mindfulness meditation can increase self-awareness and encourage tranquility. People might establish a mental distance by recognizing unfavorable thoughts without becoming engrossed in them. This distance makes it possible to see things more clearly and lessens the emotional impact of these thoughts. Mindfulness-based therapies, like Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), combine mindfulness practices with conventional CBT procedures to treat depression holistically.

Positive Affirmations

Positive phrases known as affirmations are used to combat and dispel self-defeating and negative ideas. People who repeat these affirmations can develop an optimistic outlook. Specific, upbeat affirmations that are expressed in the present tense are required. For instance, a person with low self-esteem would declare, “I am deserving of love and respect.” Research reveals that positive affirmations can help rewire the brain, gradually altering how people view themselves and their environment, despite detractors’ doubts about their efficacy.

Gratitude Practice

Gratitude is an effective weapon against negativity. People’s perspectives change from what they lack to what they have when they intentionally concentrate on the things for which they are grateful. One might cultivate a good mindset by keeping a gratitude diary in which they record daily items for which they are grateful. Simple things like a lovely sunrise, a thoughtful act, or a satisfying dinner can be included in it. This routine helps the brain become more adept at noticing and appreciating the good things in life—even when they are difficult to see. In addition to altering thought processes, gratitude fosters a sense of overall well-being.

Physical Exercise and Healthy Lifestyle

There are several advantages to regular physical activity for mental health. Endorphins, the body’s natural stress relievers, and mood elevators, are released during exercise. Exercises like jogging, yoga, or dancing not only enhance physical health but also raise self-esteem and lessen depressive and anxious symptoms. Adopting a nutritious, well-balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and abstaining from drugs and alcohol are also essential. The body and mind have the energy they need to deal with stress and negative thoughts when they have the proper nourishment and rest.

Conclusion

Applying these strategies in daily life can make a big difference in altering depressive-related negative thought patterns. It’s crucial to remember, though, that treating depression frequently necessitates a complex strategy. Individuals can learn to question their negative thought patterns, practice self-compassion, and embrace a more optimistic attitude on life with the knowledge and direction of Kenyatta Black, your compassionate counselor in Arlington, Texas.

08 Oct 2023

Depression / Mental Health

5 Techniques To Help Change Negative Thoughts Of Depression

Negative thoughts frequently drain our energy, especially for people who are depressed. But by using the appropriate methods, you may change your mind and see things more positively. Utilizing the knowledge of Kenyatta Black Counseling, your go-to counselor in Arlington, Texas, we’ll examine five effective ways to assist in overcoming negative thoughts in this blog post. 

The Burden of Negative Thoughts

Labyrinthine layers of depression frequently show themselves as a constant stream of negative, self-critical thoughts. These ideas spiral in on themselves, intensifying the emotional upheaval. Even the simplest things may seem overwhelming to people who are depressed because they feel hopeless. It’s important to understand that, despite being debilitating, these negative thoughts do not constitute one’s identity. There are difficulties to go over and obstacles in the way of healing.

The Beacon of Hope: Kenyatta Black Counseling

For individuals navigating the turbulent waters of despair, Kenyatta Black Counseling, located in the center of Arlington, Texas, is a ray of hope. Kenyatta Black offers a safe sanctuary, offering knowledgeable direction and compassion to people looking for relief from the onslaught of unfavorable ideas. She does this with a wealth of experience and unshakable determination. The therapy process requires a sense of trust and openness, both of which are fostered by Kenyatta’s method, which is grounded in empathy.

Empowering Techniques for Positive Transformation

Let’s now go into the transforming techniques that are the foundation for overcoming unfavorable ideas, each of which has been carefully chosen to assist people on their path to emotional well-being:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

In CBT, a type of psychotherapy, the goal is to recognize and change unfavorable thought patterns and behaviors. Therapists assist patients in identifying erroneous thinking and swapping it out for more rational and uplifting ideas. Understanding the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors is made easier by using this method. People can end the cycle of depression by recognizing and reframing negative ideas. Additionally, CBT gives people coping mechanisms and problem-solving abilities, making it simpler to handle trying circumstances.

Mindfulness Meditation

Being completely present in the moment and noticing thoughts and feelings without passing judgment on them is the practice of mindfulness. Consistent mindfulness meditation can increase self-awareness and encourage tranquility. People might establish a mental distance by recognizing unfavorable thoughts without becoming engrossed in them. This distance makes it possible to see things more clearly and lessens the emotional impact of these thoughts. Mindfulness-based therapies, like Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), combine mindfulness practices with conventional CBT procedures to treat depression holistically.

Positive Affirmations

Positive phrases known as affirmations are used to combat and dispel self-defeating and negative ideas. People who repeat these affirmations can develop an optimistic outlook. Specific, upbeat affirmations that are expressed in the present tense are required. For instance, a person with low self-esteem would declare, “I am deserving of love and respect.” Research reveals that positive affirmations can help rewire the brain, gradually altering how people view themselves and their environment, despite detractors’ doubts about their efficacy.

Gratitude Practice

Gratitude is an effective weapon against negativity. People’s perspectives change from what they lack to what they have when they intentionally concentrate on the things for which they are grateful. One might cultivate a good mindset by keeping a gratitude diary in which they record daily items for which they are grateful. Simple things like a lovely sunrise, a thoughtful act, or a satisfying dinner can be included in it. This routine helps the brain become more adept at noticing and appreciating the good things in life—even when they are difficult to see. In addition to altering thought processes, gratitude fosters a sense of overall well-being.

Physical Exercise and Healthy Lifestyle

There are several advantages to regular physical activity for mental health. Endorphins, the body’s natural stress relievers, and mood elevators, are released during exercise. Exercises like jogging, yoga, or dancing not only enhance physical health but also raise self-esteem and lessen depressive and anxious symptoms. Adopting a nutritious, well-balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and abstaining from drugs and alcohol are also essential. The body and mind have the energy they need to deal with stress and negative thoughts when they have the proper nourishment and rest.

Conclusion

Applying these strategies in daily life can make a big difference in altering depressive-related negative thought patterns. It’s crucial to remember, though, that treating depression frequently necessitates a complex strategy. Individuals can learn to question their negative thought patterns, practice self-compassion, and embrace a more optimistic attitude on life with the knowledge and direction of Kenyatta Black, your compassionate counselor in Arlington, Texas.

06 Sep 2023

Counseling / Mental Health / Treatment

The Strength of Black Therapists

The value of counseling cannot be emphasized in today’s fast-paced environment, where stress and mental health issues are on the rise. The therapy provides patients with the chance to discuss their concerns reflect on their emotions and work towards healing and personal growth. The benefits of therapy exceed those of traditional therapy which serves only to help people of color in need. In this article, we will discuss the importance of black therapists their role in the mental health community, and the availability of African Americans.

Understanding the Importance of Representation

In the field of mental health representation is crucial. People especially those of color find therapists who belong to their ethnic or racial community. The black therapists feel like they are being acknowledged heard and accepted by people of color because of their extensive knowledge and cultural background.

Empathy and Reliability

Embracing the unique experiences and challenges of Black clients is one of the most important skills for Black therapists. They have a greater ability to understand and build trust with their clients because of their familiarity with cultural racial and socioeconomic influences that shape their lives. They feel confident in speaking with integrity and they don’t worry about being judged for their relativeness.

The experience of black therapists has faced numerous challenges in their practice with identity microaggression and racism. Due to their first-hand experience, they can develop a closer relationship with their clients. Because they are aware that these issues are actual experiences rather than just abstractions, black therapists can offer empathy and affirmation when clients express concerns about racial injustice or discrimination.

Breaking Stigmas

For far too long, stigmas around mental illness have lingered in numerous communities To help their communities get past these prejudices, black therapists are essential. When people encounter a therapist who resembles them in their profession, it helps dispel stereotypes and motivate more people to get the care they require.

Black therapists assist in lowering the stigma associated with treatment by candidly addressing their mental health struggles and adventures. By serving as examples, they demonstrate that seeking counseling is a sign of strength rather than weakness. Others may get motivated to do the same after realizing they are not the only ones going through difficult times.

Cultural Competence

Black therapists are frequently knowledgeable about the cultural quirks, historical backdrop, and structural problems that Black people face. Since they have a thorough understanding of their patient’s individual needs, they can deliver more successful therapy. They can speak sensitively and intelligently about topics relating to racism, identity, and generational trauma.

A Black therapist can assist their clients in navigating the complicated interactions between race, culture, and mental health when they discuss their experiences and worries with them. With this specific method, therapy is made to be a tailored and successful healing process rather than a one-size-fits-all strategy.

Locating a Local African-American Therapist

The first step is to locate a Black therapist in your region if you wish to work with one. The tips listed below can help with your search:

Online Directories

Use online directories that let you filter by race and ethnicity to find therapists. Numerous databases of Black therapists are available on the internet.

Ask for Referrals

Request recommendations from friends, family members, or neighborhood organizations. Finding a therapist who comes highly recommended can be a lot easier with personal recommendations.

Community Resources

Your neighborhood’s community centers, churches, and groups may be able to recommend Black therapists in your area or have resources of their own. Don’t be afraid to ask.

Social media

Look up therapists on social media sites like Twitter or Instagram, where many of them frequently post about their practice. You may find a therapist who connects with you.

Teletherapy

You might want to give it some thought. It gives you access to a larger pool of Black therapists by enabling you to work with one outside of your geographic area.

Conclusion

The ability of Black therapists to offer culturally competent, sympathetic, and relatable support to individuals of color is their greatest asset. People can find a safe space to confront their mental health issues and move toward healing by seeking therapy with a Black therapist. Kenyatta Black is here to assist you on your road to wellness.

If you are looking for an “African American therapist near me” use the methods listed above. Never forget that therapy is a tremendous instrument for healing and personal development, and finding the proper therapist can mean the world. The future of people and communities will be healthier and more empowered if we embrace the strength of Black therapists.

03 Aug 2023

Mental Health

What Do the American Psychological Association’s New Guidelines Mean for Black Men and Boys?

You’ve probably heard the news that the American Psychological Association recently released new guidelines for therapists working with Black men and boys. About time, right? For too long, the mental health field has failed to understand and serve this population. The guidelines are a welcome step toward addressing racial inequities in mental healthcare and providing culturally competent support for Black males. Kenyetta Black being a strong advocate for mental health and well-being in the Black community, brings you the significance of these guidelines.

Recognizing and Addressing Racism and Bias

The APA’s new guidelines are a step in the right direction for promoting the mental health of Black men and boys. For too long, the psychological establishment has failed to recognize the impacts of systemic racism and discrimination.

  • Calling out these biases and providing strategies to address them will help ensure Black men receive culturally competent care. Things like acknowledging racial trauma, recognizing strength and resilience in Black culture, and avoiding victim-blaming language are examples of culturally sensitive counseling.
  • The guidelines also highlight the mental health disparities Black men face, including higher rates of schizophrenia, PTSD, depression, and suicide. By shining a light on these inequities, the APA is helping make Black men’s mental health a priority.

While long overdue, these guidelines are an important first step. They have the potential to transform a system that has too often failed and even harmed Black communities.

Providing Culturally Responsive Mental Health Services

The new guidelines are a step in the right direction for providing mental health services that meet the needs of Black men and boys. Here are a few of the major things the guidelines recommend:

Train professionals in cultural competency

This means therapists and counselors learn about the specific challenges and experiences of Black males to provide more sensitive, relevant treatment. Things like the impact of racism, racial trauma, and social inequities.

Focus on building trust and authentic relationship

Many Black men are wary of mental health services due to past abuses and discrimination. Professionals need to make an effort to understand clients’ perspectives, be transparent in their approaches, and form real connections.

Address social barriers and stressors

Things like lack of access to education, healthcare, safe communities, and economic opportunity can take a major psychological toll. Counseling should help clients develop coping strategies but also work to dismantle systemic inequities.

Incorporate community and family

Mental health is not something that exists in a vacuum. Professionals should consider clients’ community and family relationships, and include them in treatment where possible. Group counseling and community programs may also help.

Promote empowerment and resilience

The goal should be to help Black males develop self-confidence, coping mechanisms, and pathways to success, not just treat disorders. Focus on their strengths, talents, and dreams.

Promoting Resilience and Positive Growth

To promote resilience and positive growth in Black men and boys, focus on protective factors that build strength and support.

To prevent stressful life events and adversity, protective factors serve as buffers. For Black men and boys, these include:

  • A strong sense of ethnic identity and pride. A sense of purpose and belonging is created when one is connected to their cultural background.
  • Social support networks that are close knit. Strong family, friendship, and community interactions are critical for conquering loneliness and building a network of caring individuals.
  • Access to mental health resources. Speaking with a therapist or counselor can assist you in developing coping strategies for trauma, stress, depression, and other concerns.
  • Possibilities for empowerment and achievement exist. Happiness and wellbeing are enhanced in one’s life when they feel in control and able to alter their surroundings. Give Black men and boys the space they need to develop into leaders.
  • Providing a sense of direction or significance for one’s life. Having a purpose or importance in life gives one a sense of direction and motivation. Identify the goals, values, and interests of Black men and boys.

Conclusion

Though they are long overdue, the new APA rules are a good place to start. They understand that cultural relevance is essential for mental health therapy to be effective, especially for groups like Black men and boys who experience significant difficulties. Therapists will soon be educated to provide you with the necessary mental health care.

The search for a “African American therapist near me” could be a crucial and life-changing step toward emotional well-being and rehabilitation. Black men and boys must recognize that they have a right to great mental health care. By ensuring that mental health services are easily accessible, efficient, and adapted to the diverse requirements of all communities, let’s take advantage of the opportunity for growth and transformation.

12 Jun 2023

Counseling / Depression / Mental Health

How to Counsel Yourself Out of Depression

Depression is a painful mental illness that affects millions of people all over the world. Even though it is essential to get professional help, there are things you can do to help yourself get out of sadness. You can help yourself improve by becoming more self-aware, taking care of yourself, challenging negative thoughts, having goals you can reach, and asking for help. This piece will give you some practical ways to deal with depression and get your life back on track.

  1. Self-Awareness

The first step to overcoming sadness is learning more about yourself. Spend some time getting to know your feelings, thoughts, and causes. Pay attention to your physical and mental health, and look for signs of stress or wrong ways of thinking. Keeping a journal or practicing awareness can help you become more aware of your feelings and understand what makes them happen.

  1. Self-Care

Putting yourself first will improve your general health. Do things that make you happy and calm down, like sports, working out, or spending time in nature. Focus on getting enough sleep, eating well, and avoiding things that can worsen sadness, like drugs and alcohol. Taking care of your body can improve your mental health, making you happier and giving you more energy.

  1. Challenging Negative Thoughts

Negative and self-defeating thoughts are often fueled by depression, so it is important to challenge them. Learn to question and reframe these thoughts to make your mind more upbeat. Change self-critical or pessimistic thoughts with ones that are kind and practical. Self-compassion is essential, and you should tell yourself that your depression does not define who you are. Use positive affirmations and spend time with helpful, encouraging people who can help you keep a good attitude.

  1. Setting Goals That Can Be Met

Depression can make even the most minor jobs seem impossible. Break up big goals into smaller, more manageable steps and focus on one job at a time. Celebrate small wins and note how far you have come along the way. Setting goals, you can reach gives you a sense of purpose and success and helps you feel less hopeless.

  1. Seeking Support

Self-counseling is helpful, but looking for support from other people is also essential. Contact trusted friends, family members, or support groups who can offer empathy, understanding, and guidance. Joining a community group or seeing a counselor in Arlington can help you get expert advice and find more options. Remember that it takes strength to ask for help, and you do not have to deal with sadness alone.

 

To help yourself get out of sadness, you must be committed, patient, and kind. You can make significant steps toward recovery by becoming more self-aware, taking care of yourself, challenging negative thoughts, having goals you can reach, and asking for help. Remember that getting over sadness is a process that can take time. Be kind to yourself and enjoy even the most minor steps forward. With persistence and taking charge of your life, you can escape depression and find hope and happiness.

Male with Internet gaming disorder playing video games 23 Feb 2023

Counseling / Mental Health

Internet Gaming Disorder

It seems like yesterday when my cousin, Peter, introduced me to this new game called Atari’s Pong. This game was far different from board games like Monopoly or Chutes and Ladders. Pong was played on the television!! It was the most amazing thing I have ever experienced. We spent hours and hours blissfully playing Pong and other Atari games. Little did I know that something that brought me so much joy as a kid would be the catalyst to a new addictive behavior also known as internet gaming disorder.

Video Game Addiction, Real or Not?

When I started researching this subject, I was surprised how much information I found on it. How was something I used to pass the time during college or wind down and forget about the stresses of the day and bring so much stress and anxiety to others. Like many drugs of addiction, such as opioids, cocaine, or nicotine, internet gaming disorder releases a pleasurable surge of dopamine that promotes addictive behaviors.

The Cleveland Clinic defines dopamine as a type of neurotransmitter and hormone which plays a role in many important body functions, including movement, memory and pleasurable reward and motivation. It is known as the “feel-good” hormone. The pursuit of this sense of pleasure is what entices people to repeat behaviors, productive or detrimental, that release dopamine which begins on addiction.

Did the Pandemic play a significant role in the growth of gaming addiction?

The simple answer is yes. Video game addiction has grown exponentially during the pandemic. In 2018 The World Health Organization added “gaming disorder” to its medical reference book, International Classification of Diseases. All researchers and health professionals did not view gaming in the same light. In fact, the DSM-5, the American Psychiatric Association’s manual, did not deem it worthy to label it as a disorder. It considered gaming as an activity that could lead to addiction. Research has shown that 86 percent of young adults ages 18 to 24 play online video
games regularly which is up dramatically since 2020.

Studies from 2022 have found that Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) had risen to an all-time high during the COVID pandemic. The American Psychiatric Association new edition of its manual, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), had to make drastic revisions

Does my child suffer from Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD)?

The DSM-5-TR proposed symptoms of internet gaming disorder include:

● Preoccupation with gaming
● Withdrawal symptoms when gaming is taken away or not possible (sadness, anxiety,
irritability)
● Tolerance, the need to spend more time gaming to satisfy the urge
● Inability to reduce playing, unsuccessful attempts to quit gaming
● Giving up other activities, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities due to
gaming
● Continuing to game despite problems
● Deceiving family members or others about the amount of time spent on gaming
● The use of gaming to relieve negative moods, such as guilt or hopelessness
● Risk, having jeopardized or lost a job or relationship due to gaming

Under the proposed criteria, a diagnosis of internet gaming disorder would require experiencing
five or more of these symptoms within a year. The condition can include gaming on the internet
with others or alone.

What should I do next?

If you feel as if you or someone you love is showing symptoms of IGD, you should seek professional assistance from your doctor or therapist or your child’s pediatrician. It is important to begin treating video game addiction in the preliminary stages. Mental health counseling therapy such as CBT or cognitive behavioral therapy will teach you to replace thoughts about gaming with more constructive thoughts to change you or your child’s behavior

Author: Guy Humes – Postgrade student at Lamar University
Supervisor in situ: Kenyatta Black Jacobs, LPC-S

Kenyatta Black - How has COVID-19 affected mental health 14 May 2022

Mental Health

How has COVID-19 affected mental health?

The COVID-19 pandemic might have carried many changes to how you carry on with your life, and with it, on occasion, vulnerability, adjusted everyday schedules, monetary tensions and social seclusion. You might stress over becoming ill, how long the pandemic will endure, whether your work will be impacted and what the future will bring. Data over-burden, bits of gossip, and deception can cause your life to feel crazy and make it muddled about what to do.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, you might encounter pressure, tension, dread, bitterness and sadness. Also, psychological well-being issues, including uneasiness and despair, can deteriorate.

Overviews show a significant expansion in the quantity of U.S. grown-ups reporting side effects of pressure, uneasiness, sorrow and sleep deprivation during the pandemic, as contrasted with overviews before the pandemic. Specific individuals have expanded their utilization of liquor or medications, imagining that can assist them with adapting to their feelings of dread about the pandemic. As a general rule, utilizing these substances can deteriorate tension and misery.

Individuals with substance use issues, eminently those dependent on tobacco or narcotics, will probably have more regrettable results on the off chance of getting COVID-19. That is because these addictions can hurt lung work and debilitate the safe framework, causing constant circumstances, for example, coronary illness and lung infection, which increment the gamble of serious difficulties from COVID-19.

For these reasons, it’s critical to learn to take care of oneself methodologies and get the consideration you want to assist you with adapting.

Perceive what’s expected and so forth

Stress is a normal mental and actual response to the requests of life. Everybody responds diversely to tough spots, and feeling pressure and stress during a crisis is ordinary. However, different difficulties, like the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, can push you past your capacity to adapt.

Many individuals might have emotional wellness concerns, like side effects of nervousness and wretchedness during this time. What’s more, sentiments might change over the long run.

Notwithstanding your earnest attempts, you might discover yourself feeling vulnerable, miserable, angry, crabby, irredeemable, restless or apprehensive. You might experience difficulty focusing on average errands, changes in craving, body a throbbing painfulness, or trouble dozing, or you might battle to confront routine tasks.

When these signs and side effects keep going for a few days straight, make you hopeless and create issues in your everyday existence, so you find it hard to complete ordinary obligations, now is the right time to request help.

Please proceed with your taking care of oneself systems

You can anticipate that your ongoing unmistakable inclinations should blur when the pandemic is finished; however, stress will not vanish from your life when the well-being emergency of COVID-19 closures. Proceed with these self-care practices to deal with your psychological well-being and increment your capacity to adapt to life’s difficulties.

Conclusion

Self-care is necessary for every form, especially when staying alive has become one of the challenges. At Kenyatta Black, we ensure your mental and physical health as we strive for better and healthy living among individuals suffering from depression. Call us if you feel like you are also suffering from any suffering. 

Kenyatta Black - Texas vs. California 11 Aug 2021

Mental Health

Texas vs California Mental Health Resources / Facts

All through the pandemic, many individuals have encountered poor psychological well-being, with more than 30% of grown-ups in the U.S. detailing side effects of uneasiness and additionally burdensome turmoil, up from 11% of adults preceding the pandemic. Negative psychological well-being results have further influenced youngsters and youths; more than 20% of school-matured kids have encountered demolished mental or enthusiastic well-being since the pandemic started. This expansion in emotional well-being conditions comes when psychological wellness assets are stressed. Individuals with emotional well-being analyze regularly face boundaries to mind. Among grown-ups with side effects of uneasiness and additionally burdensome confusion during the pandemic, more than 20% report requiring, however not getting, emotional wellness guiding or treatment.

Some of the points discussed on Texas vs California Mental Health Resources.

  • All Texas plans overviewed careful tending to food frailty and transportation, while 71% of plans revealed tending to lodge.
  • In California, lodging unsteadiness was the top issue being tended to (84 per cent), trailed by the absence of transportation (79%) and food uncertainty (74%). In the Texas review, the cost was a significant obstruction for well-being to address their individuals’ lodging needs.
  • Transportation and food frailty are the two issues that medical services organizations have a history of dealing with and are an essential focal point of screening devices, for example, the one created by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation’s Accountable Health Communities drive.
  • A significant part of Medicaid plans in the two states reports evaluating social requirements (79% of Texas plans and 85% of California plans).
  • Self-communicated inspirations are practically the same. In Texas, plans reacted that the main three elements were “Information reflecting part needs” (79%), “Mission and qualities,” and “Quality contemplations.”
    However, in California, the best three components were “Mission and qualities” (79%), “Quality contemplations,” and “Information reflecting necessities.”
  • Principal worries about maintainability are widespread. In the two expresses, the essential concerns fixated on having sufficient and stable assets to proceed and grow systems identified with social determinants.
  • Plans in the two states showed that the most positive advances that state government could take support front and centre venture (for instance, by repaying for social determinants–related administrations and additionally permitting social determinants–centered speculations to qualify as quality enhancements) and to count SDOH ventures when setting future well-being plan rates.
  • Extra refinement and restraints are significant. Also, we have found out that most of the plans in the two states revealed local area ventures that advantage populaces past their individuals. The exact size of those speculations was missed, and there is a wide bay between.

Conclusion

Many facts and points have been discussed, covering from daily routine to overall lifestyle maintenance, which more or less affects the citizens’ mental health. If you ever feel like you are suffering from any anxiety. In that case, you can take professional help from Kenyatta Black, which can help you in facing your fears and helps you in taking out of the depression you are facing as many people don’t take it very seriously. Still, mental health is also an alarming situation of which one should be aware.

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